HISTORY

A passion for innovation and technological expertise led the founder of G.B.Pirelli & C. to set up what for Europe was a ground-breaking rubber company. His vision of expanding into cables and tyres, and intuitively adopting a delocalized model, are the elements that turned this small company into an international industrial group.

Pirelli developed and expanded its enterprise culture internationally. Production increased, and by 1918 the company had 10,000 employees. The cable sector embarked on an international growth curve across the pond.
G.B.Pirelli & C. soon became a pillar of Italian industry and business.

The distribution of electrical energy became a key focus for Pirelli globally, consequently driving its cable exportation activities. Alberto Pirelli's business acumen and diplomatic capabilities saw the company serving national interests towards the end of WW1 and led to him being appointed chairman of Italy’s Exportation Institute.

Continuing and building on the progress achieved to date, the company boosted its international approach to production. Its increasing focus on a new way of doing business, prioritising ethics, corporate responsibility and its people was internationally acknowledged, with Leopoldo Pirelli's appointment as vice chairman of Confindustria.

"Now we can understand something: let's take a look inside".

Universally remembered as one of the leading lights of the electrical field, Emanueli contributed to perfecting Pirelli's telephone and electrical cables. He also played a decisive role in developing tyre technology, patenting the Cinturato.

The Group's renowned advertising reached new heights of creativity: it was a dynamic period in publishing across various sectors. The new approach to communications led to the creation of the first in-house advertising agency in a company, and the Pirelli house organ.

'Pigomma'- foam rubber is a tactile pleasure, and simulates life but without the risks

Munari used Pirelli rubber to produce an original collection of toys: this was the start of an intense new creative period that opened new horizons for the company's industrial heritage. Pirelli rubber became a household name for its toys and furniture, which were the first step in its journey towards cutting edge design.